NJ Domestic Violence Defense Lawyers
Temporary Restraining Order
A temporary restraining order – also known as a TRO – is a judge-issued order that bars you from contacting or harassing someone (or a group) for a designated period of time. It differs from a restraining order, or PPO, in that it is court ordered against a cohabitant of the victim, whereas other restraing orders are often sought by the victim against non-cohabitants, such as neighbors, coworkers, or others. The restraining order will specify things like: how far you must stay from the person, whether the two of you can occupy the same property or not, whether you are barred from showing up at a person's home, work, or other property. The judge has significant discretion to spell out the terms of the TRO.
Why people seek restraining orders
Individuals can ask for restraining orders against you for a variety of reasons, including:
- Reaction to spousal abuse or violence – a battered wife may get a temporary restraining order to prevent her aggressive husband from seeing her or her children.
- An attempt to end stalking/threatening behavior.
- Malicious attempt to make you look bad. For instance, say you and spouse are locked in a destructive divorce battle. Your spouse may ask for a temporary restraining order against you for no other purpose than to try to make it look like you are a dangerous person.
What comes next?
Whether you have been accused of domestic violence, stalking, or any other crime, your temporary restraining order will be just that – temporary – until the court hears both sides of the case. When a court adjudicates the charges, the temporary order may be lifted or may be made permanent. It is the obligation of the person who obtained the TRO to renew it once it expires.
Violating a restraining order – even one that you believe is not justified – can get you into serious legal trouble. Rather than risk jail time or other serious penalties, instead connect with the Princeton domestic violence law firm, Lependorf & Silverstein. These New Jersey criminal defense professionals have been fighting for the rights of criminal defendants like you for years, and they have the resources, compassion, and detailed knowledge of the law to provide top level service. Call today at 609-240-0040.